Investigating the Strength Characteristics of Reinforced Concrete Grouted Sleeve Connections in Seismic Zones

Abstract

Four precast columns with vertical grouted splice anchor connection are simulated using the pseudo-static method while the cast-insitu columns are the control group to assess the performance of the precast concrete members having steel sleeve connections. The result showed that the cracking modes of the precast columns and the cast-in-place columns are identical, however, these variations come into play when considering the pattern distribution of fractures. The insitu columns are usually base cracked horizontally and much higher diagonally descending fractures at their sleeves while prefabricated columns experience higher sleeves horizontally cracked followed by descending diagonally high at their bases. Also, additional cracks progress into the beam within a high range of 300 mm that appear on the underside of the beam. The hysteresis curves for prefabricated columns are generally stably shaped, signalling the fact that such structures are prone to dissipate or absorb energy. In addition, the rate at which the stiffness of the prevailed prefabricated specimens reduces is lull compared to the rate at which the stiffness of the wet-cast specimens reduces. A base mold of columns with a minimum displacement angle of 0.55 degrees is used and it is an appropriate displacement ratio for the design of large earthquakes. At the very end this given paper recommends the best way to do the construction of the Earthquake Framework applying precast concrete constituents with the grouted secured joinages.